The Polaroid Now Generation 3 Thrasher Edition is a limited special edition of the analog instant camera Polaroid Now Generation 3. It was created in 2025 from a collaboration between the photography company Polaroid and the US-American skateboard magazine Thrasher, which was founded in 1981 in San Francisco. The edition was designed to honor the long-standing connection between analog instant photography and global skateboard culture.
Design
The design highlight of the camera lies in its appearance. It is decorated with Thrasher motifs using water transfer printing, also known as hydro-dipping. The pattern resembles a classic sticker-bombed look, as often found on skateboards or in urban spaces.
Since the printing process takes place in a water bath and the color film individually wraps around the curves of the camera body, the exact pattern varies on each produced device. Thus, every specimen of the special series is a unique visual piece.
Features
Technically, the Thrasher Edition corresponds to the regular Polaroid Now Generation 3. It uses the manufacturer's square i-Type instant film format and operates purely analog.
The camera is equipped with a dual autofocus system that automatically selects between a close-up lens (0.55 m to 1.3 m) and a distance lens (0.6 m to infinity) to ensure precise depth of field.
An integrated exposure control automatically adjusts shutter speed and aperture to the lighting conditions. Creative features include a double exposure button and a self-timer. Power is supplied by a built-in lithium-ion battery that can be charged via a USB-C port.
Film
Along with the camera, the Polaroid Color i-Type Film Thrasher Edition was introduced. This film offers eleven exclusive frame designs with fiery and illustrative motifs by artist Neckface. Neckface is a long-time collaborator of Thrasher magazine, whose provocative drawing style shapes the aesthetic of the special series.
The film is compatible with all cameras that use the i-Type system. Likewise, the special edition camera can be used with all i-Type and 600 films.
